Swan Valley kickers reach district finals

Evan Myles attempts to deflect a header into the goal during Swan Valley’s Oct. 17 district semifinal against Shepherd.
Photo by Lamont Lenar The Swan Valley soccer team advanced to the district finals last week. The Vikings beat Alma 3-2 in the opening round on Monday, Oct. 15, took Shepherd 1-0 in the semis on Wednesday, Oct. 17 and lost to Freeland 3-0 in the finals on Oct. 20.

In the semifinals against Shepherd, the Vikings and Bluejays played a defensively focused game.

As the game began, most play was in the midfield with a few breakouts from each squad, with the defenders getting back. Neither team was able to get a quality shot on goal, leaving the score 0-0 at the half.

In the second half, the teams began with the same pattern set in the opening half. As the period went on, the Vikings were able to take control of the midfield and drive into the Shepherd zone.

At the midpoint of the second half, Swan Valley was controlling the ball and able to get good scoring opportunities. Then with 8:19 left, Nolan Everts drove in front of the goal and scored for the Vikings.

Viking Jack Raines out-sprints the Shepherd defender to the ball at midfield during the district semifinal matchup on Oct. 17.
Photo by Lamont Lenar Swan Valley continue to control the ball the rest of the way and took the 1-0 win.

The Vikings last matchup against Shepherd in the regular season ended in a 1-0 win also.

In the semifinals against Shepherd, Swan Valley coach Eric Whelton said he felt good about the teams play. As the game went on the team moved some players around, which led to controlling the ball and the goal, he said.

The Vikings finish the season at 9-8-5. Coach Whelton said they had their ups and downs, but progressed as the season went on.

Rico Kaupert brings the ball into the Shepherd zone during the Vikings’ Oct. 17 district semifinal.
Photo by Lamont Lenar